What steps can we take to remain faithful, unlike Judas in Luke 22:6? Scripture Snapshot “ So he consented, and began to look for an opportunity to betray Jesus to them in the absence of a crowd.” (Luke 22:6) Recognize the Danger Signs • Unchecked sinful desire—Judas’s love of money (John 12:6) quietly grew until it ruled him. • Secret agreements—he plotted “in the absence of a crowd,” hiding his intentions. • Spiritual dullness—though he heard every sermon, his heart never surrendered (John 6:70-71). Guard Your Heart Intentionally • Daily self-examination: “Watch over your heart with all diligence” (Proverbs 4:23). Ask the Spirit to expose any affection competing with Christ. • Immediate repentance: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us” (1 John 1:9). Do not let compromise harden into betrayal. • Feed on Scripture: “Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You” (Psalm 119:11). Stay Close to Jesus • Persistent prayer—Jesus urged, “Pray that you will not fall into temptation” (Luke 22:40). • Delight in His worth—Peter’s confession keeps us steady: “Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words of eternal life” (John 6:68). • Regular remembrance—participate in the Lord’s Supper with a grateful, examined heart (1 Corinthians 11:26-28). Walk in Community • Mutual encouragement: “Encourage one another daily… so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness” (Hebrews 3:13). • Transparent friendships—invite trusted believers to ask you hard questions before sin takes root. • Accountable stewardship—handle resources openly to avoid Judas-type temptations. Suit Up for Spiritual Battle • Put on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18). Betrayal began with Satan’s influence (Luke 22:3). Stand firm by truth, righteousness, faith, and the Word. • Resist the devil: “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7). Serve with Pure Motives • Seek God’s glory, not personal gain (Colossians 3:23-24). • Give generously—open-handed giving breaks greed’s grip (2 Corinthians 9:6-8). • Humble service—wash feet rather than weigh thirty pieces of silver (John 13:14-15). Persevere to the End • Remain watchful: “Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed, lest he fall” (1 Corinthians 10:12). • Rest in God’s keeping power: “He who began a good work in you will perfect it” (Philippians 1:6). Choose daily faithfulness, and the path that ensnared Judas will become a warning light rather than your story. |
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